'So Near Yet So Far' - Former Cricketers React to India's Heartbreaking Loss at Edgbaston

England managed to pick the remaining five Indian wickets in the morning session of Day 4 to register a 31-run victory in the first Test at Edgbaston.

All-rounder Ben Stokes proved to be the game-changer for the hosts, dismissing India's captain Virat Kohli, who notched up another half-century, and then going on to add another two scalps to seal England's win.

There were plenty of reactions on social media after the end of a thrilling contest between the two sides.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan echoed the sentiments of cricket fans around the world, and wrote,"That’s been a fantastic 3 days & 1 session .. Loved every single minute .. 2 teams giving it everything .. hope we have 4 more Tests exactly the same .. A Great 4 day Test Match."

That’s been a fantastic 3 days & 1 session .. Loved every single minute .. 2 teams giving it everything .. hope we have 4 more Tests exactly the same .. A Great 4 day Test Match !!! #ENDvIND

Another view which would be common among many was that of former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi. He wrote, "Feel very sad fr @imVkohli ..he did the maximum on either side & still finished up losing."

Feel very sad fr @imVkohli ..he did the maximum on either side & still finished up losing..he worked so hard on the ball leaving him that he might’ve forgot there’s an indipper as well..clearly a case of so near yet so far..!Both teams appear to carry fair amount of deadwood.??! — Bishan Bedi (@BishanBedi) August 4, 2018

Commentator Alan Wilkins applauded both sides for a well-fought encounter, saying, "Well played @englandcricket and @imVkohli who inspired @BCCI throughout."

Great Test .. Warriors on both sides .. go again at Lords .. will be watching from York .. — David 'Bumble' Lloyd (@BumbleCricket) August 4, 2018

I hope the Indian Batsmen realise that to make consistent runs in UK.. that their defence must be a priority.. Forward defence, Back defence and leaving the ball. If they have a weakness .. these Eng Bowlers will find it!